We turn our attention just west of Doha – the gateway to the desert. The city of Qatar’s most popular soccer club, Al Rayyan, will play host to multiple matches at this years World Cup. If you’re lucky enough to watch a game inside this brand spanking new piece of steel, you’ll experience one of most intimate field to seating experiences. Let’s get to know Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium – 10 fun facts.
Gateway to the Desert Stadium
- Seating capacity is 40,000 and will host six group stage matches and one round of 16 match.
- The brand new Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium opened its doors in 2020. It logged 20 million working hours to complete.
- The new stadium was built on the same grounds as the old stadium, ironically, with the same name.
- The stadium has a glowing facade that is made up of patterns that paint the picture of the country.
- Fans inside the stadium will feel like they are on top of the action due to the design and architecture.
- There is a lightweight canopy that will shield fans from any elements nearby such as sun or sand.
- Built inside a close knit community, visitors will be in awe of the dune shaped merchandise booths nearby.
- Al Rayyan, one of the most popular soccer clubs in Qatar will make Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium its new home following the World Cup.
- The land surrounding the stadium will feature six auxillary fields, a cricket field, horse track, cycling and jogging track, and outdoor gym equipment. The community will benefit greatly.
- Following the tournament, seating capacity will be reduced to 20,000 seats. The remaining 20,000 seats will be donated to underdeveloped countries.
